How to vote

The recommendation to maintain the current level and scope of services by increasing the rate from approximately $0.0032 to $0.00352 per litre (Option B) is considered by Dairy Australia to be the most responsible approach for the industry.

Option B is fully supported by both Australian Dairy Farmers Ltd (ADF) representing dairy farmers and the Australian Dairy Products Federation (ADPF) representing dairy manufacturers, processors, traders and exporters.

It’s important to note that the rate of levy has remained unchanged since 1997 while the Consumer Price Index has risen by more than 36 per cent since that time.

To vote for Option B, number all three boxes as shown above. Voters must indicate their order of preference by writing 1, 2 and 3 in the boxes provided on the ballot paper – number 1 being the voter’s most preferred option, and number 2 being the next most preferred option.

Completed ballot papers must be posted or faxed to the Returning Officer to be received no later than close of business on Friday, 16 March 2012.

After the close of voting, the Returning Officer will count the votes and declare the preferred levy rate. It is this rate that will be considered by the Federal Agricultural Minister, and if accepted apply from 1 July 2012.